Fibre optics

Working Futures

Exploring the drivers affecting the future of the workplace.

The changing nature of work and the impact of technology are presenting challenges to individuals, employers and policy-makers alike.

While some are embracing the changes, others are in danger of being left behind. We are in an age where data, technology and innovation dominate our working culture and practices; yet how is our work measured and valued and what impact will this have going forward? Issues abound with new focuses on the job markets of the future, the impact of AI and automotive technologies, the impact of platforms and big data, on online security and for the individual, the lines between work life and private life as they increasing blur.

The Work Foundation are currently working with partners to understand the implications of this seismic shift, through its unique insights and programme of work has a number of projects which explore these and other issues.

Projects

Bulb icon

Productivity, technology and working anywhere

Client: Citrix

This study follows on from our 2016 investigation into Working Anywhere which highlighted the tipping point of mobile working in the UK. This project seeks to understand the complex relationship between technology and productivity and how businesses can drive growth through adopting new ways of working.

Download report
PC icon

Understanding the supply of and demand for cyber skills in the UK

Client: Department for Culture, Media & Sport

Commissioned by Government (DCMS) and undertaken in partnership with Databuild and Security Lancaster, The Work Foundation has been investigating the supply and demand for cyber-security skills in the UK.

Bulb icon

Identifying a "tipping point" of mobility

Clients: Hotwire

The Work Foundation was commissioned to explore the idea that this type of working may be reaching a “tipping point” – whereby it becomes more prevalent than traditional office-based work - and how the benefits could be made to outweigh the downsides for both individuals and employers.

Download report
Bulb icon

In search of the 'gig-economy'

The concept of the “gig-economy” reflects two fundamental trends in the labour market – the use of digital platform technologies to extend the reach of service provision and the intensification of fragmentation into self-employment, and micro firms. Our research seeks to establish the argument for greater clarity of definitions to enable effective intervention and regulation to challenge exploitation and to prevent the ‘blunt’ policies which destroy good work.

Download report

Reports

  • The Transformation To A Knowledge Society

    A paper for the ASBAR World Forum, Saudi Arabia, on Social and Economic Improvement Through Innovation.

  • Shape the agenda of Good Work

    A report discussing a new vision for work to maximise opportunities for all in future.

  • In search of the Gig Economy

    The first in a series of reports looking at what constitutes the Gig Economy.

  • Working anywhere

    Is mobile working a winning formula for Good Work?